Fife-based independent Scotch whisky bottler Saltire Rare Malt has been named a Rising Star Brand at Taiwan’s Golden Whisky Awards. The accolade marks another international milestone for the Falkland-based business as it builds its presence in one of the world’s most influential Scotch whisky markets.
Organised by Want Want China Times Media Group, a Taiwanese food manufacturer and media corporation, the awards are now in their fourth year and recognise brands and businesses across the country’s drinks industry.
Saltire Rare Malt is building its presence in Taiwan alongside its official importer and distributor, FeelGood Inc.
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The brand was recently showcased at a dedicated whisky tasting in Taipei, hosted by Steven Lin in partnership with FeelGood Inc. A Master of the Quaich, one of Scotch whisky’s highest honors, Lin is a respected whisky educator and author.
Saltire Rare Malt was launched in 2024 by friends and founders Nigel Heywood and Keith Rennie, with the business based in Falkland, Fife. The independent bottler works alongside whisky experts Hans and Becky Offringa, known as The Whisky Couple, to curate a collection of rare single cask and limited-edition Scotch whiskies.
From its home in Falkland, the business says its bottlings now reach collectors and trade partners across Europe, North America, Asia, and South Africa.
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READ THE STORY“It’s fantastic to see Saltire recognised in Taiwan, an important market for Scotch whisky and one where we’re continuing to build some brilliant relationships,” said Keith Rennie, co-founder of Saltire Rare Malt. “We’re a small independent business from Fife with big international ambitions, so to see our whiskies gaining recognition and reaching new audiences on the other side of the world is incredibly exciting. It’s a brilliant moment for everyone involved in Saltire.”
The award adds to a growing list of achievements for the bottler. The nominations mark another milestone for Saltire Rare Malt, which was crowned Newcomer of the Year at the 2025 Scottish Whisky Awards.
The business has since gone further. The bottler secured six finalist spots across four categories at the 2026 Scottish Whisky Awards, with nominations including Independent Bottler of the Year and Excellence in Branding.
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